WEST MICHIGAN — Endometriosis is a global women's health issue, and Dr. Diana Bitner with True. Women's Health says it's time for women to stop their care from being dismissed and delayed. Dr. Bitner wishes no more women would have to suffer, after walking patients through infertility, pain and shame for their conditions. Knowing the signs, symptoms, and treatment options can help more women stop having their lives limited.
Endometriosis isn't just pain, it could also cause missed work, delayed dreams and strained relationships. It happens when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, on ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel, bladder, or pelvic walls. Endometriosis is not "bad cramps" but it's a chromic inflammatory disease.
What the data shows:
- Average diagnostic delay from onset of symptoms globally ~7-8 years
- If symptoms begin in teen years, the delay is often 8-12 years
- Many women see 3-5 clinicians before diagnosis
- Up to 1 in 10 reproductive-age women are affected
Delays happen because:
- Severe period pain is normalized
- Teens are told "this is just part of being a woman"
- Imaging (ultrasound, CT) is often normal
- Defining diagnosis historically required surgery, but now there are non-invasive tests
This matters especially to women because untreated inflammation over decades could cause changes to anatomy and quality of life.
What can women do?
- Track symptoms (cycle timing, bleeding, pain with sex, bowel and bladder symptoms) using a period tracking app
- Seek a provider experienced in Endometriosis diagnosis and treatment options
- Discuss fertility goals early
- Understand all options, whether they be medical, surgical or reproductive
- Speak up and be heard. Endometriosis is not your fault
Dr. Bitner says there isn't a one-size-fits-all treatment for Endometriosis. The right plan depends on age, goals, pain levels and your fertility plans.
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